Dispersed camping near Etlan, Virginia offers several free and primitive camping options within the George Washington National Forest and surrounding areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 800 to 3,000 feet with significant temperature variations between daytime and nighttime, particularly in spring and fall when temperature swings of 30°F are common. Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles to access, with rough forest roads that become impassable during or after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 2-4 miles round trip at Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed where the terrain provides good views during the hike. "About as flat as you'll get, the hike here was nice. It's a decently private spot with the trail close by, bugs weren't bad," reports Allan M.
Water activities: Access points available at South Fork Shenandoah River which offers riverside camping with boat launch facilities. "The road to get to the campsite was well maintained and easy to get to. Campsites themselves were a tad overgrown but it was the beginning of the season. Each site had its own fire pit," notes Sumner C.
Backpacking routes: 4+ mile options from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site with significant elevation changes. "It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning," advises Jon N.
What campers like
Ridge views: Sunrise and sunset panoramas at many dispersed sites throughout George Washington National Forest. "Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site," says TJ W. about Veach Gap.
Solitude at creekside sites: The Crisman Hollow Road Camp area provides water access without crowds. "It a quiet area with many spots on right on the water. There was one really nice hiking trail by the bridge," reports Waseem H.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution at many of the more remote sites. "Airport is too close so plenty of light pollution to block out the true beauty of the night sky," notes Ashley F. about South Fork Shenandoah River, suggesting campers seeking dark skies should choose more remote locations.
What you should know
Bear activity varies by location: Bears are common throughout the region, with varying activity levels. "We had one beef stick (trash thrown in our hang bag of course) but after one bear sniffed that sucker out 15 minutes later while we were in our tent we heard the first one full sprint and slobbering to check it out," reports Allan M. from Laurel Prong Trail.
Cell service is non-existent at most dispersed sites near Etlan. "Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions)," warns TJ W. about Veach Gap, one of the few locations with any service.
Access road conditions can be challenging especially after rain. "The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots," explains Emil D. from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping.
Local competition for sites: Weekends and holidays often mean full campgrounds. "Big thing to note is that the locals will hog up the sites sometimes coming out at least a week in advance to set up a tent. One guy was smart enough to hang a barely used trash bag from a tree to make it seem like the site was being used," warns a South Fork Shenandoah River camper.
Tips for camping with families
Established camping alternatives: When free camping is full, consider Little Fort Campground which has more amenities. "Nice flat camp site with picnic table and fire pit. Comes with tent pad but surface is too hard to use pegs. No requirements, just show up and claim your spot on the board," explains Zack B.
Wildlife opportunities for kids: Bring binoculars and wildlife identification books. "2 deers came to visit us at night... Saw Momma and two baby black bears," reports a camper at South Fork Shenandoah River.
Water availability planning: Most sites require bringing your own water. "If you travel back to U.S. 33 and drive 9.1 miles West you will find the Brandywine General Store on your left. They have kiln dried firewood, ice, bait, and supplies you may have forgot at home," suggests Mike C. from Switzer Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most free camping near Etlan Virginia restricts larger vehicles. "This ain't for rookies!" warns Mike C. about Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping. "Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you."
Camping pad considerations: For smaller rigs, consider site selection carefully. "Many of the car parking pads are not level. But the tent pads appear to be," notes VanRumschpringa V. about Wolf Gap Recreation Area.
Seasonal access limitations: Weather significantly impacts RV accessibility. "I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn't the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days. The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in," warns kylie B. about Switzer Lake.
